If you are an adult considering returning to school, you may worry that you cannot juggle a family and an education at the same time. But you can find ways to balance these two aspects of your life.

When you decide to go back to school, sit down with your family for a serious discussion. Explain to your family your reasons for returning to school. Perhaps you want to take a few classes to get that promotion at work, or perhaps you want to get a degree to return to the working world after your children have reached a certain age. If your entire family will benefit from your return to school, they will undoubtedly support your decision. And if they love you, they will support you anyway, even if you want to return to school simply for self-fulfillment.

First you need to set up some ground rules. Not just for your family, but also for yourself. You will need a peaceful environment in which to get your work done, with as few distractions as possible. Choose a quiet place to study and let your family know that when you are in that place, you are not to be disturbed unless there is an emergency. Make clear what kinds of emergencies would warrant an interruption. You may even want to make a "do not disturb" sign to hang up when you are hard at work on your studies.

Get your family involved in your education as much as possible. Talk about what you are learning while you are all at the dinner table. You'd be surprised what a role model you become for your kids when you are in school. Maybe you'd like to have homework time with your kids, where you all sit down and do your work together. Homework time with the kids is a great way to stay involved with your family and get your studying done at the same time. It can also help to motivate both you and your children.

One of the best things you can do is to put your educational goals in writing. That way you can refer back to your list when you are feeling overwhelmed. To help manage your time and priorities, make step-by-step plans for your schoolwork and any projects you may have. One thing you can consider is taking a time-management course to help you prioritize, and make sure you fit in everything.

Plenty of options exist for adults who have a family and want to continue their education, but who also work. Many schools offer weekend classes, so you can study while the kids are at soccer or karate. You can also take day, night or online classes, depending on the schedule of your family and the distance from the school. If you want to attend a college far from your home, and you don't want to commute or move your family, online courses may be the best way to go.

It is important that you realize that your needs are important, too. When in doubt, ask for help and communicate. You are likely to find that many of your classmates are facing the same obstacles you are when it comes to balancing school and family. Try to build a support network for yourself among your classmates, friends and family. Perhaps you have a friend or relative who can help with child care. If not, you'll find that quite a few schools are sensitive to the needs of adult students and offer affordable on-campus child care facilities.

The most important thing is that you be flexible and learn to compromise. Your classes will not last forever, so neither will your conflicting roles. If you feel a disconnect with your family, make a date with your spouse or your children. It is important for all of you to still have family time, even when you are returning to school. It is important, and it is not impossible. You can find the balance you need to get your education and be a part of your family.

And just think how proud your family will be when they go to your graduation.